EU executive plans to visit Turkey in April

European Council President Charles Michel said on March 25 that he contacted Turkish officials for planning a visit to Turkey in April.

Michel and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen spoke at a press conference after an EU leaders' summit which was held via video link and completed in one day, although two days were planned.

Michel said they hope to improve relations with Turkey, noting that "at the same time, it is important for us that Turkey continues its positive and moderate attitude. We hope the dialogue will be fruitful."

"We are in contact with the Turkish authorities for a visit to Turkey, probably in April," he said.

Michel stressed that the Eastern Mediterranean is one of the priority issues for the EU and its member states, adding they are happy that tensions have been lowered and wish that this would continue.

He said they want a positive agenda with Turkey but added that this is conditional.

"If Turkey continues its moderate stance in the coming weeks and months, we, as the EU and its members, are ready to put more concrete proposals on the table. We want a more predictable relationship with Turkey.

"Topics in improving relations are the updating of the Customs Union, contacts between communities and the issue of travel and, of course, migration," he added.

Michel said he hoped to discuss the issue again at the EU leaders' summit in June and make formal decisions.

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